“We have the most eclectic venue in town,” Executive Director Robert Martin says. The best way to maintain that position is balance: If a bluegrass band has just been through, that probably means it’s time for an African a cappella group. This eclecticism keeps a variety of people coming through the doors, but the size of the Lensic keeps the experience from being overwhelming--in fact, it’s the opposite.

“You feel like you’re connected here,” and people keep coming back “to be entertained and to be with other people,” Emily Crawford, public relations manager, says. It’s a special mix, just right for Santa Fe taste buds. (Caroline K Gorman)